The Four Generations In The Workplace

Workplaces are becoming diverse in age demographics and creating a business environment that has substantial amount of experience and maturity as well as youthful ebullience. Companies that hire employees of different ages have the advantage of creating a dynamic and multi-generational workforce having a diverse range of skills that is advantageous for the company.

A multi-generation workforce mainly has four generations and each generation has its own values, attitudes, and characteristics based on their life experiences. Therefore in order to successfully unite these four generations into the workplace we need to learn about them in depth.

The four generations are: a. Baby Boomers – (people born between 1946 and 1964)

Generation Y - (people born between the 1980’s and 2000) d. Generation Z – (people born after the year 2000)

Baby Boomers were basically born during the post WWII. It is known so because after World War 2, there was a population “boom” that continued for decades due to the substantial economic growth that occurred during this period. It is also believed that by 2030, about one in five Americans will be older than 65, and therefore the aging of the population will place a strain on government and health related demands. Generation X, as compared to Baby Boomers, was a highly educated generation. They were more acceptable and inclusive of other cultures and has a long embraced diversity. Generation X has grew up in a society without social media and they not only have they adapted but also invented it. Moreover, historical events such as The Civil Rights Movement, the end of the Cold War and the fall of The Berlin Wall have been a part of the growth of the Generation X. Generation Y, also known as the millennials, were born in a world of emerging technology. Technology is an essential part of their

For example, Baby Boomers is considered to be the most productive and hardworking generation in their organization. They are known for being a team player and mentoring others. But at the same time this generation is the least adaptable and collaborative. In the case of Generation X, they are more independent, resourceful and have an adaptable approach to work. Moreover, they require a flexible workplace and enjoy freedom and autonomy. While baby boomers prefer a more rigid and work-centric approach in workplace, generation X thrive on challenges, diversity and creative input. Generation Y on the other hand are excellent multi taskers. However they don’t tend to stay in one job for a long time. Their major weakness is that they focus on their own rewards and promotions due to which other generations consider them arrogant and unethical. Moreover, in the case of Generation Z, it is predicted that they would occupy 10% of the workforce by 2020. Since they are the best ones at internet technology, they would be better at processing information. But at the same time they are believed not to be team players and are more self-directed. And they are considered to be the smarter